Introduction
If you own a Breville food processor, you have probably asked yourself Can Breville Food Processor Go in Dishwasher? at least once. The answer is not a simple yes or no because different models and individual components have different cleaning requirements. Understanding which parts can safely handle the heat and water pressure of a dishwasher—and which parts must be washed by hand—will protect your investment, keep the appliance performing at its best, and save you time in the kitchen. This guide walks you through every Breville food processor series, breaks down each component, and gives you a clear, step‑by‑step cleaning routine that balances convenience with longevity.
- Introduction
- Understanding Breville Food Processor Models
- Which Parts Are Dishwasher Safe?
- Bowls and Lids
- Blades and Discs
- Pushers and Accessories
- Parts That Should Never Go in the Dishwasher
- How to Clean Your Breville Food Processor Properly
- Dishwasher Settings and Best Practices
- Comparison Table: Dishwasher‑Safe vs. Hand‑Wash Parts
- Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Processor
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Understanding Breville Food Processor Models
Breville offers several food processor families, each with slightly different designs and materials. The most common lines include the Breville Sous Chef series (12‑cup and 16‑cup), the Breville BFP800XL (the original 16‑cup model), the Breville BFP660SIL (the 12‑cup “Mini” version), and the newer Breville BFP700 compact models. While the overall architecture—motor base, work bowl, lid, feed tube, and a set of interchangeable blades and discs—remains consistent, the plastics used for bowls and lids can vary between BPA‑free Tritan, polycarbonate, and reinforced nylon. These material differences directly affect dishwasher compatibility. Always check the user manual for your exact model number, which is usually printed on the bottom of the motor base, before placing any part in the dishwasher.
Which Parts Are Dishwasher Safe?
Most Breville food processors are designed with convenience in mind, and the majority of the removable parts are labeled dishwasher safe on the packaging or in the manual. However, “dishwasher safe” does not mean “indestructible.” High‑heat cycles, harsh detergents, and aggressive spray arms can degrade certain plastics over time. Below is a breakdown of the components that are generally safe for the dishwasher, along with the caveats you should keep in mind.
Bowls and Lids
The work bowls (both the large 12‑cup/16‑cup bowl and the smaller mini bowl on some models) and their matching lids are typically made from BPA‑free Tritan or a similar high‑temperature polymer. These materials tolerate the standard dishwasher top rack without warping. Place the bowl and lid upside down on the top rack, ensuring they are not nested together, so water can reach all surfaces. Avoid the bottom rack where the heating element is closest, as prolonged exposure to direct heat can cause subtle clouding or micro‑cracks over many cycles.
Blades and Discs
Stainless‑steel slicing discs, shredding discs, and the multi‑purpose S‑blade are all dishwasher safe. The metal construction resists corrosion, and the sharp edges are not damaged by water jets. However, the small plastic hub that attaches the disc to the motor shaft is sometimes made of a softer polymer. If your model includes a plastic hub, place it on the top rack as well. For the S‑blade, remove any food residue before loading; dried‑on particles can become projectiles during the wash cycle and dull the edge.
Pushers and Accessories
The food pusher (the plastic plunger that fits into the feed tube) and any included storage containers or measuring cups are usually dishwasher safe. These parts are lightweight, so secure them in the utensil basket or a dedicated small‑items rack to prevent them from flipping around. If your model includes a dough blade or a whisk attachment, treat them the same way—top rack only. (See Also:Can The Owala Go In The Dishwasher)
Parts That Should Never Go in the Dishwasher
Even though many components survive the dishwasher, a few critical pieces must always be cleaned by hand. The motor base houses the electrical circuitry, the control panel, and the power cord. Submerging or exposing these to high‑pressure water will cause permanent damage and void the warranty. The rubber feet on the base can also degrade in the dishwasher’s heat. Additionally, any silicone seals or gaskets that sit between the bowl and the lid should be hand‑washed with mild soap and warm water; the dishwasher’s detergent can dry them out and lead to leaks.
How to Clean Your Breville Food Processor Properly
Following a consistent cleaning routine keeps your processor hygienic and extends its service life. The steps below combine hand‑washing for sensitive parts with dishwasher use for the robust components.
- Unplug the unit and remove the work bowl, lid, and all attachments from the motor base.
- Rinse immediately after use to prevent food from drying on blades and discs. A quick rinse under warm running water removes the bulk of residue.
- Separate dishwasher‑safe parts (bowl, lid, blades, discs, pusher, accessories) and place them on the top rack of the dishwasher. Use a gentle or “eco” cycle with a mild detergent.
- Hand‑wash the motor base with a damp cloth. Never immerse the base. Wipe the control panel, power cord, and rubber feet. Dry thoroughly with a soft towel.
- Clean silicone seals by gently pulling them from the lid, washing with warm soapy water, rinsing, and air‑drying before re‑installing.
- Inspect blades and discs for any remaining food particles. Use a soft brush if needed, then dry completely to avoid water spots.
- Reassemble only after every component is fully dry. Store the processor with the bowl off the base to allow air circulation.
Dishwasher Settings and Best Practices
Not all dishwasher cycles are created equal. For Breville parts, the following settings give the best balance of cleaning power and material preservation:
- Top‑rack only – Keeps parts away from the heating element.
- Low‑temperature or “eco” cycle – Typically 45‑50 °C (113‑122 °F), reducing thermal stress on plastics.
- Mild detergent – Avoid harsh alkaline powders; a liquid or pod labeled “gentle” works well.
- No heated dry – Let parts air‑dry or use the “air dry” option to prevent warping.
- Secure lightweight items – Use the utensil basket or a small‑item rack so pushers and measuring cups stay upright.
Comparison Table: Dishwasher‑Safe vs. Hand‑Wash Parts
| Component | Dishwasher Safe? | Recommended Cleaning Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Work Bowl (Tritan/Polycarbonate) | Yes (top rack) | Dishwasher or hand wash | Avoid bottom rack; do not nest with lid |
| Lid | Yes (top rack) | Dishwasher or hand wash | Place upside down |
| S‑Blade (Stainless Steel) | Yes | Dishwasher | Remove food residue first |
| Slicing/Shredding Discs | Yes | Dishwasher | Plastic hub top rack if present |
| Food Pusher | Yes | Dishwasher (utensil basket) | Secure to prevent flipping |
| Motor Base | No | Hand wipe only | Never immerse |
| Control Panel | No | Hand wipe only | Keep dry |
| Power Cord | No | Hand wipe only | Inspect for damage |
| Silicone Seals/Gaskets | No | Hand wash with mild soap | Air dry before reinstalling |
| Rubber Feet | No | Hand wipe | Heat can cause cracking |
Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Processor
- Alternate between dishwasher and hand washing for the bowl and lid to reduce cumulative heat exposure.
- Sharpen or replace the S‑blade annually if you notice decreased cutting performance.
- Store the processor with the bowl detached from the base to prevent moisture buildup.
- Use a soft, non‑abrasive sponge for hand‑washing; scouring pads can scratch Tritan surfaces.
- Periodically check the motor base vents for dust; vacuum gently to maintain airflow.
- Avoid processing extremely hot ingredients (above 80 °C) directly in the bowl; let them cool slightly first.
- Keep the original packaging or a dedicated storage box for blades and discs to protect edges.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Putting the motor base in the dishwasher – This is the single most damaging error; it destroys electronics instantly.
- Using the bottom rack for bowls – Direct heat warps plastic and can cause hairline cracks.
- Skipping the rinse step – Dried food hardens on blades, making them harder to clean and dulling edges.
- Overloading the dishwasher – Parts can knock against each other, chipping blades or cracking lids.
- Using harsh detergents or bleach – These degrade plasticizers in Tritan and dry out silicone seals.
- Reassembling while parts are still wet – Trapped moisture encourages mold and can cause the motor to short if droplets reach the base.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wash the Breville food processor bowl in the dishwasher every day?
Yes, the bowl is designed for regular top‑rack dishwasher use. However, alternating with hand washing once a week reduces long‑term heat exposure and keeps the plastic clearer.
Is the S‑blade safe for the dishwasher’s heated dry cycle?
The stainless‑steel blade itself tolerates heated dry, but the plastic hub (if present) should be kept on the top rack with the heated dry turned off to avoid warping.
What should I do if my lid becomes cloudy after many dishwasher cycles?
Cloudiness is usually caused by mineral deposits. Soak the lid in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water for 15 minutes, then rinse and hand‑dry. This restores clarity without damaging the material. (See Also:How To Deep Clean Whirlpool Dishwasher)
Can I place the food pusher in the silverware basket?
Absolutely. The pusher is lightweight, so securing it in the utensil basket prevents it from flipping and blocking spray arms.
Does the warranty cover damage from dishwasher use?
Breville’s limited warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Damage caused by improper cleaning—such as submerging the motor base—is not covered. Always follow the manual’s cleaning instructions to stay within warranty terms.
Are there any Breville models where *no* parts are dishwasher safe?
All current consumer models have at least the bowl, lid, blades, and discs rated dishwasher safe. Older discontinued models may differ; consult the specific manual for that model. (See Also:How To Install Frigidaire Dishwasher Door Seal)
Conclusion
Knowing exactly which components of your Breville food processor can handle the dishwasher—and which cannot—lets you clean efficiently without risking damage. The work bowl, lid, stainless‑steel blades, discs, and most accessories are safe on the top rack using a gentle cycle, while the motor base, control panel, power cord, silicone seals, and rubber feet must always be hand‑wiped. By following the step‑by‑step cleaning routine, using the recommended dishwasher settings, and avoiding the common mistakes outlined above, you will keep your processor performing like new for years. The next time you wonder Can Breville Food Processor Go in Dishwasher? you’ll have the confidence to load the right parts and protect the heart of your kitchen workhorse.
